Forsyth Tech News
Understanding the Next NC Scholarship
What is the Next NC Scholarship?
The Next NC Scholarship is a financial aid program that combines the federal Pell Grant with state-funded financial aid to create a simplified and predictable scholarship award. This initiative aims to make education more affordable and accessible for most North Carolinians by covering a significant portion of tuition and fees.
How much funding can community college students expect?
Students attending any of the 58 community colleges across North Carolina will receive at least $3,000. This amount is more than the cost of full-time tuition, ensuring that qualifying students have all of their tuition and fees fully covered.
What about students attending public universities in North Carolina?
For those attending one of the 16 public universities in the state, the scholarship provides a minimum of $5,000. This funding covers more than half, if not all, of the tuition and fees, making higher education more affordable.
How can students find out the exact amount of funding they will receive?
Students can use the Next NC Scholarship Calculator to determine the amount of funding they can expect. This tool helps provide a clear understanding of the financial support available to them.
Can students receive more than the minimum funding?
Yes, students with the greatest financial need may qualify for additional funding. This extra support aims to make paying for college even more manageable.
What are the eligibility requirements for the Next NC Scholarship?
To receive the Next NC Scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be a North Carolina resident eligible for in-state tuition.
- Be a high school graduate or have completed a high school equivalency.
- Have a household with an annual Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $80,000 or less.
- Enroll in an eligible undergraduate curriculum program for the 2024-2025 academic year.
- Take at least 6 credit hours per semester (part-time students will receive a partial award).
- Meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress standards of their chosen school.
- Complete the 2024-2025 FAFSA with a resulting Student Aid Index (SAI) at or below 7,500.
How is eligibility confirmed?
Once the FAFSA is completed, the financial aid office at the college or university the student plans to attend will determine and confirm eligibility for the Next NC Scholarship.
Why is the Next NC Scholarship important?
The Next NC Scholarship is important because it provides a predictable and understandable financial aid option for students. By covering significant tuition costs, it allows more North Carolinians to pursue higher education and achieve their career goals without the burden of overwhelming financial stress.